How do I start bidding on an item? –
To place a bid, you’ll first need to register for an account and securely add a valid credit or debit card. Once your registration is complete, you’ll be able to bid on any available auction items.
Why do I need to enter a credit card before placing a bid? –
To maintain the integrity and security of our auction, Discovery Language Academy requires all bidders to register a valid credit or debit card through our secure payment processor, Stripe. This helps us verify each bid is genuine. Stripe safely stores your payment details using encrypted technology, and your card will only be charged if you win an item.
If I win an auction, how do I receive my item? –
Once an auction ends, we’ll contact you to arrange pickup. Most items can be picked up at Discovery Language Academy, 128 Union St., New Bedford, MA 02740.
We recommend calling ahead during business hours to confirm your item is ready for pickup, as some donated items may take a little extra time to arrive before we can release them.
For questions or to schedule pickup, please reach out to us at 508-997-8295 or email info@discoverylanguageacademy.org.
When do I pay for the item I won? –
When you registered for our auction, you provided a credit or debit card through our secure system. If you win an item, your card will be automatically charged at the close of the auction.
In the event that your payment does not process successfully, we will contact you to arrange prompt payment. No items will be released until full payment has been received.
Important: If payment is not received within 3 business days after the auction concludes, your winning bid may be forfeited, and the item offered to the next highest bidder.
How does the auction work? –
Participants can browse available items, place bids, and the highest bidder at the end of the auction period wins the item. Some auctions may also have a “Buy It Now” option.
Is there a fee to participate in the auction? –
No, registration and participation are free. You’ll only be charged if you win an item.
Can I cancel a bid once it’s placed? –
No — all bids are final and legally binding. Please be certain before placing a bid.
Is there a buyer’s premium or additional auction fee? –
No — there is no buyer’s premium or extra auction fees. You pay only the final winning bid amount.
Do I need to create an account to bid? –
Yes — you’ll need to register for a free account to place bids and track your activity.
Who benefits from the proceeds of the auction? –
100% of proceeds from this auction support Discovery Language Academy, helping us continue providing quality language education and cultural programs to our community.
How do I place a bid? –
Once registered and logged in, simply click on the item you’re interested in, enter your bid amount in the bid box, and confirm your bid.
Is there a minimum bid increment? –
Yes — each auction item will display a required minimum bid increment you must meet or exceed when placing a higher bid.
How do I pay for an item I’ve won? –
When the auction closes, the credit or debit card you registered with will be automatically charged for your winning items.
What if my payment fails? –
If your payment doesn’t go through, you’ll receive a notification with instructions to update your payment information and complete the transaction within 24 hours.
Do you charge sales tax? –
No. We do not charge a sales tax on items won.
How do I receive the item I won? –
Most items are available for local pickup only. If you’re unable to pick up your item in person, we can arrange to have the item shipped to you for an additional fee. In these cases, we will contact the winning bidder to coordinate the best possible shipping method. Please note, no item will be shipped until the shipping fee has been received in full. All shipping costs are the responsibility of the winning bidder.
Are auction items new or used? –
The condition of each item is listed in its description. Some items may be new, while others may be gently used, antique, or collectible.